By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the names of 25 people who died in the crash involving its ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The Air Force said the aircraft had 25 people on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers, with no survivor recorded following the accident.
In a statement signed by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Service identified all 25 victims of the crash.
The five crew members were identified as Squadron Leader MI Aburime, Flight Captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje, Co-pilot; Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, Co-pilot; Warrant Officer Abubakar A, Aircraft Technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, Aircraft Technician.
The passengers were identified as Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus; Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye; Flying Officer IM Adeshina; Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F; Master Warrant Officer Matini BA; Warrant Officer Nuhu FS; Flight Sergeant James RB; Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI; Sergeant Ani AE; Sergeant Izibenikien SI; Sergeant Alafuka C; and Sergeant Mbadugha AN.
Others were Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC; Lance Corporal Eledan GE; Mrs Ezeh Nneka; Godstmine Tarabina; Joy Micheal; Sunday Micheal; Ukeme David; and Gideon Omotola.
The aircraft was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
The NAF said search-and-rescue procedures were immediately activated, with response efforts carried out in coordination with relevant authorities to locate and account for everyone on board.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed profound condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of the deceased.
Aneke described the crash as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation, assuring the bereaved families of the Service’s full support during the difficult period.
The Chief of the Air Staff has also directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Nigerian Air Force said it would continue to provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses.
The Service urged the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information, while respecting the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects.
Credit: Nigerian Air Force (NAF)
